Cryptographic key server embedded in data transfer system

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods for managing cryptographic keys in an avionic data transfer system are provided. A host device associated with the avionic data transfer system can receive one or cryptographic keys via a key fill interface. For instance, in one embodiment, the host device can receive one or more cryptographic keys from a removable data cartridge. The host device can act as a key server for other cryptographic units associated with the avionic data transfer system via a data bus. For instance, the host device can distribute one or more cryptographic keys to other cryptographic units associated with aircraft via an aircraft bus. The other cryptographic units can use the one or more cryptographic keys for cryptographic processing of data.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to cryptographic processingof data.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cryptographic systems can include cryptographic equipment used for theprocessing and transfer of secure data. For instance, data transfersystems, such as data transfer systems used in aviation systems foraircraft, can include cryptographic equipment used to receive andtransfer secure data. Cryptographic systems typically require one ormore keys to be loaded into the system to allow the cryptographicprocessing of data. In addition, cryptographic equipment can require thepresence of a cryptographic ignition key (CIK) for user authentication.

Data transfer systems can include multiple units of cryptographicequipment. For instance, data transfer systems used in an aviationsystem can include twenty or more cryptographic units. Eachcryptographic unit can require the loading of keys for cryptographicprocessing as well as the presence of a CIK for user authentication.This can require significant time resources to allow cryptographicprocessing of data by the data transfer system. This can be particularlydisadvantageous in certain data transfer systems, such as data transfersystems associated with aviation systems where time can be of theessence for dispatch of aircraft.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will beset forth in part in the following description, or may be learned fromthe description, or may be learned through practice of the embodiments.

One example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a method ofproviding cryptographic keys in an avionic data transfer systemassociated with an aircraft. The method includes receiving, at a hostdevice, one or more cryptographic keys for cryptographic process of datafrom a removable data storage device interfaced with the host device.The method further includes identifying, by the host device, at leastone cryptographic unit of a plurality of cryptographic units incommunication with the host device over a data bus for distribution ofthe one or more cryptographic keys. The method can further includetransferring, by the host device, the one or more cryptographic keys tothe at least one cryptographic unit via the data bus.

Another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to anavionic data transfer system. The avionic data transfer system includesa host device and a plurality of cryptographic units coupled to the hostdevice via a data bus. The host device includes one or more processorsand one or more memory devices. The memory devices can storecomputer-readable instructions that when executed by the one or moreprocessors cause the one or more processors to perform operations. Theoperations include receiving one or more cryptographic keys forcryptographic processing of data from a removable data storage deviceinterface with the host device. The operations can further includeidentifying at least one cryptographic unit of the plurality ofcryptographic units for distribution of the one or more cryptographickeys and transferring the one or more cryptographic keys to the at leastone cryptographic unit via the data bus.

Yet another example aspect of the present disclosure is directed to acryptographic system. The cryptographic system includes an avionic datatransfer system comprising a host device and a plurality ofcryptographic units coupled to the host device via a data bus. Thecryptographic system further includes a removable data storage devicestoring one or more cryptographic keys. When the removable data storagedevice is engaged with the host device, the host device is configured toreceive the one or more cryptographic keys for cryptographic processingof data from the removable data storage device. The host device isfurther configured to identify at least one cryptographic unit of aplurality of cryptographic units for distribution of the one or morecryptographic keys. The host device is further configured to transferthe one or more cryptographic keys to the at least one cryptographicunit via the data bus.

Variations and modifications can be made to these example aspects of thepresent disclosure.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of various embodimentswill become better understood with reference to the followingdescription and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which areincorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrateembodiments of the present disclosure and, together with thedescription, serve to explain the related principles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Detailed discussion of embodiments directed to one of ordinary skill inthe art are set forth in the specification, which makes reference to theappended figures, in which:

FIG. 1 depicts an example cryptographic system according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 depicts an example removable data cartridge according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 depicts an example removable data cartridge according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 depicts the example interfacing of a removable data cartridgehaving an embedded cryptographic ignition key (CIK) device according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 depicts an example removable data cartridge having an embeddedCIK device according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 depicts an example removable data cartridge having a key memoryand an embedded CIK device according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 7 depicts an example avionic data transfer system according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 depicts a representation of an example cryptographic keyconfiguration (CKC) according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 9 depicts an example terminal for generating a CKC according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 10 depicts a flow diagram of an example method according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention,one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Eachexample is provided by way of explanation of the invention, notlimitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be madein the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit ofthe invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as partof one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a stillfurther embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present inventioncovers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of theappended claims and their equivalents.

Example aspects of the present disclosure are directed to an avionicdata transfer system (e.g., associated with an aircraft) having one ormore cryptographic units. A host device associated with the avionic datatransfer system can receive one or cryptographic keys via a key fillinterface (e.g., a DS-101 interface). For instance, in one embodiment,the host device can receive one or more cryptographic keys from aremovable data cartridge. In particular implementations, the removabledata cartridge can be configured to provide both data subject tocryptographic processing (e.g., secure aviation data) as well as one ormore cryptographic keys to the host device. In some embodiments, theremovable data cartridge can provide a cryptographic ignition key (CIK)for user authentication.

The host device can use the one or more cryptographic keys forcryptographic processing of data (e.g., the mission planning data). Inaddition, the host device can act as a key server for othercryptographic units associated with the avionic data transfer system viaa data bus. For instance, the host device can distribute one or morecryptographic keys to other cryptographic units associated with aircraftvia an aircraft bus (e.g., MIL-STD-1553, ARINC-429, etc.). The othercryptographic units can use the one or more cryptographic keys forcryptographic processing of data.

In one embodiment, the one or more cryptographic keys can include headerdata. The one or more cryptographic keys can be automaticallydistributed through the avionic data transfer system based on the headerdata. In one embodiment, an interface at the host device can be used todistribute the one or more cryptographic keys to the variouscryptographic units in the avionic data transfer system.

A technical effect of example embodiments of the present disclosure issimplification of the key loading process for aircraft operations. Moreparticularly, a removable data cartridge or other key fill device canload keys to a host device of an avionic transfer system. The one ormore cryptographic keys can then be distributed to the plurality ofcryptographic units via an aircraft data bus. In this way individual keyload operations do not have to be performed for each cryptographic uniton the aircraft. Accordingly, distributing one or more cryptographickeys loaded to an avionic data transfer system via a removable datacartridge interface can provide the ability for all key managementactivities for an aircraft event to be accomplished at a singleterminal, loaded onto a single removable data cartridge, and distributedto all cryptographic units on an aircraft in a single action.

Example aspects of the present disclosure are discussed with referenceto avionic data transfer systems associated with an aircraft forpurposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in theart, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that thesubject matter described herein can be used with other cryptographicsystems without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 depicts an example cryptographic system 100 according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure. As shown the cryptographic system100 includes a host system 110, a terminal 120, and one or moreremovable data cartridges 130 used to transfer information to the hostsystem 110. The host system 110 can be a data transfer system associatedwith one or more cryptographic units 115. Each cryptographic unit 115can include one or more processors configured to cryptographicallyprocess (e.g., encrypt/decrypt) data using various encryption algorithmsand/or perform other cryptographic functions. In some embodiments, thehost system 110 can be a data transfer system associated with an avionicdata transfer system associated with an aircraft. In some embodiments,the host system 115 can include a plurality of cryptographic units 115in communications with each other over a network, such as an aircraftcommunication bus (e.g., ARINC-429 or MIL-STD-1553) or other networkconnection (e.g., Ethernet).

Each cryptographic unit 115 can require one or more cryptographic keysor other cryptographic variables (e.g., frequency hopping tables) toenable the cryptographic processing of data. In addition, eachcryptographic unit 115 can require the presence of a cryptographicignition key (CIK) for authorized user authentication. The cryptographicunit 115 can require a CIK to be interfaced with the cryptographic unit115 before undertaking the cryptographic processing of data.

The system 100 includes one or more removable data cartridges 130. Eachremovable data cartridge 130 can be a removable data storage device. Theone or more removable data cartridges 130 can be used to transfer datasubject to cryptographic processing to the host system 110. In oneembodiment, secure aviation data for an aviation system can betransferred from the terminal 120 to one or more cryptographic units 115of the host system 110 using the removable data cartridges 130.

For example, the one or more removable data cartridges 130 can beinterfaced with terminal 120 located at site A. Information, includingaviation data and/or cryptographic key configuration (CKC) data, can betransferred to the removable data cartridge(s) 130 at the terminal. Thedata transferred to the removable data cartridge(s) 130 can include bothencrypted (“black”) data as well as unencrypted (“red”) data.

The removable data cartridge(s) 130 can be transported to site B to thelocation of the host system 110. For instance, in one embodiment, theremovable data cartridge(s) 130 can be transported to the location of anaircraft. The removable data cartridge(s) 130 can be interfaced with thehost system 110. According to example aspects of the present disclosure,the removable data cartridge(s) 130 can transfer data subject tocryptographic processing (e.g., the secure aviation data) to the hostsystem 110. In some embodiments, the removable data cartridge(s) 130 cantransfer one or more cryptographic keys (e.g., as a key fill device) tothe host system 110. In some embodiments, the removable datacartridge(s) 130 can include an embedded CIK for user authentication.

FIG. 2 depicts an example removable data cartridge 130 according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure. The removable datacartridge 130 can include a housing 205 to house and protect variousinternal components of the removable data cartridge 130. As shown inFIG. 2, the removable data cartridge 130 includes a dedicated key memory210 and a dedicated data memory 220 that is separate from the key memory210 within the housing 205. The key memory 210 can store one or morecryptographic keys 215 for use by a host system (e.g., host system 110of FIG. 1) in cryptographic processing of data. The data memory 220 canstore data subject to cryptographic processing 225 (e.g., secureaviation data). The data memory 220 can include both encrypted anddecrypted data. In some embodiment, the data memory 220 does not storedata (e.g., one or more cryptographic keys) that is used incryptographic processing of the data by one or more cryptographic unitsassociated with a host system.

As shown, the removable data cartridge 130 includes at least oneconnector 230. The connector 230 can be interfaced with an externaldevice (e.g., a terminal or host system) by engaging the connector 230with a suitable slot, socket, receptacle, or connection located on theexternal device to provide a mechanical and electrical connection withthe external device. In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 2, theconnector 230 can include first pins 232 and second pins 234. The firstpins 232 and second pins 234 can be part of the same connector orseparate connectors. In one embodiment, the first pins 232 can be aU-229 6-pin connector type used to transfer information using one ormore serial protocols. The second pins 234 can include one or more pinsarranged for a USB (universal serial bus) plug connection or similarconnection.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 2 includes a key memoryinterface 212. The key memory interface 212 can communicate one or morecryptographic keys 215 stored in the key memory 210 using the first pins232 of the connector(s) 230 according to a first protocol. The firstprotocol can be a serial protocol suitable for the transfer ofcryptographic keys, such as a serial protocol used by key fill devices.As an example, the first protocol can be a DS-101 or DS-102 protocolused for the transfer of key material. Other suitable protocols can beused as the first protocol without deviating from the scope of thepresent disclosure, such as a USB protocol, I2C protocol, SPI protocol,or other suitable protocol.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 2 further includes a datamemory interface 222 that is separate from the key memory interface 212.The data memory interface 222 can communicate data subject tocryptographic processing 225 stored in the data memory 220 using secondpins 234 of the connector(s) 230 using a second protocol. In someembodiments, the second protocol can be different from the firstprotocol. The second protocol can be, for instance, a serial protocolsuitable for the transfer of data subject to cryptographic processing225, such as a USB protocol, I2C protocol, SPI protocol, or othersuitable protocol.

In some embodiments, the removable data cartridge 130 can include a keyloader 218. The key loader 218 can include computer-readableinstructions that when executed by one or more processors (e.g.,processors associated with the removable data cartridge or an externaldevice) cause the one or more processors to perform operations. Theoperations can include loading the one or more cryptographic keys 215stored in the key memory 210 to the host system via the key memoryinterface 212 according to the first protocol (e.g., a DS-101 or DS-102protocol). In some embodiments, the key loader 218 can automaticallyload the one or more cryptographic keys 215 to the host system when theremovable data cartridge 130 is interfaced with the host system. Inother embodiments, the key loader 218 can transfer the one or morecryptographic keys 215 in response to a request (e.g., as a result of auser input via a user interface) to transfer the one or morecryptographic keys 215.

FIG. 3 depicts a removable data cartridge 130 according to anotherexample embodiment of the present disclosure. The removable datacartridge 130 of FIG. 3 is similar to the removable data cartridge 130of FIG. 2 except that the removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 3includes a connector 240 having one set of pins 242 for communicatingboth the one or more cryptographic keys 215 and the data subject tocryptographic processing 225. The pins 242 can have any suitableconfiguration, such as a U-229 6-pin connector configuration, a USB(universal serial bus) plug configuration, or other suitableconfiguration.

The key memory 210 can be separately accessible via the pins 242 of theconnector 240 relative to the data memory 220. More particularly, theone or more cryptographic keys 215 stored in the key memory 210 may notbe accessible by the one or more pins 242 of the connector 240 at thesame time as the data subject to cryptographic processing 225 stored inthe data memory 220. In one embodiment, the one or more cryptographickeys 215 stored in the key memory 210 can be first transferred via thekey memory interface 212 according to a first protocol. Subsequent tothe transfer of the one or more cryptographic keys 215, the data subjectto cryptographic processing 225 can be transferred via the data memoryinterface 222 via a second protocol. In other embodiments, the datasubject to cryptographic processing 225 can be transferred prior to thetransfer of the one or more cryptographic keys 215.

According to another example aspect of the present disclosure, theremovable data cartridge(s) can include an embedded CIK device for userauthentication during the cryptographic processing of data. In theseexample embodiments, a user desiring to perform cryptographic processingof data by one or more cryptographic units of a host system caninterface the removable data cartridge(s) with the host system. A CIKdevice embedded in the removable data cartridge can communicate a CIK tothe host system for user authentication. Once a user has beenauthenticated, data can be processed by the host system. For instance,data transferred to the host system can be encrypted and/or decryptedusing one or more cryptographic keys.

For instance, FIG. 4 depicts an example removable data cartridge 130with an embedded CIK device 250 according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure. When the removable data cartridge 130 is engagedwith or otherwise interfaced with the host system 110, the CIK device250 embedded in the removable data cartridge can communicate a CIK tothe host system 110 over a suitable CIK interface. In addition, theremovable data cartridge 130 can transfer data subject to cryptographicprocessing (e.g., planning data) to the host system 110. The CIK can becommunicated by the removable data cartridge 120 over the same interfaceor a different interface as the data subject to cryptographicprocessing.

For instance, in one embodiment, the data subject to cryptographicprocessing and the CIK can be communicated via at least one connector onthe removable data cartridge 130 that is engaged with the host system110. In one embodiment, the data subject to cryptographic processing canbe communicated via the at least one connector on the removable datacartridge 130 that is engaged with the host system 110 and the CIK canbe communicated over a separate interface, such as a dedicate CIKconnector or a wireless interface.

FIG. 5 depicts an example removable data cartridge 130 having anembedded CIK device according to example aspects of the presentdisclosure. The removable data cartridge 130 includes a housing 205 tohouse and protect various internal components of the removable datacartridge 130. As shown in FIG. 5, the removable data cartridge 130includes a data memory 220. The data memory 220 can store data subjectto cryptographic processing 225 (e.g., secure aviation data). The datamemory 220 can include both encrypted and decrypted data. In someembodiments, the data memory 220 does not store data (e.g., one or morecryptographic keys) that is used in cryptographic processing of the databy one or more cryptographic units associated with a host system.

According to example aspects of the present disclosure, the removabledata cartridge 130 includes an embedded CIK device 250. The embedded CIKdevice 250 can include circuitry configured to provide a CIK 255 toexternal devices for user authentication. For instance, a user can beassociated with a particular CIK. An external device may need to receivethe CIK associated with an authorized user prior to processing orcommunicating data. In one embodiment, the CIK device 250 can include amemory storing the CIK 255. In one embodiment, the CIK device 250 caninclude circuitry (e.g., a memory and transmitter) configured towireless transmit a CIK for detection at an external device.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 5 includes at least oneconnector 260. The connector 260 can be interfaced with an externaldevice (e.g., a terminal or host system) by engaging the connector witha suitable slot, receptacle, or connection located on the externaldevice to provide a mechanical and electrical connection with theexternal device. In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 5, theconnector 260 can include first pins 262 and second pins 264. The firstpins 262 and second pins 264 can be part of the same connector orseparate connectors.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 5 includes a CIK interface 252.The CIK interface 252 can communicate one or more CIKs 255 associatedwith the CIK device 250 using the first pins 262 of the connector(s)260. The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 5 further includes a datamemory interface 222 that is separate from the CIK interface 252. Thedata memory interface 222 can communicate data subject to cryptographicprocessing 225 stored in the data memory 220 using second pins 234 ofthe connector(s) 260.

In other embodiments, the CIK interface 252 can communicate one or moreCIKs and the data memory interface 222 can communicate data subject tocryptographic processing over the same pins of connector connector(s)260. For instance, one or more CIKs 255 can be first communicated viaconnector(s) 260 to an external device for user authentication. Datasubject to cryptographic processing 225 can then be communicated viaconnector(s) 260 to the external device for cryptographic processing.

FIG. 6 depicts an example removable data cartridge 130 according toanother example embodiment of the present disclosure. The removable datacartridge 130 of FIG. 6 can be a combination key fill device, datatransfer device, and CIK device for use with a cryptographic system.More particularly, the removable data cartridge includes a key memory210, a data memory 220, and a CIK device 250 all stored within the samehousing 205. The key memory 210 can store one or more cryptographic keys215 for use by a host system in cryptographic processing of data. Thedata memory 220 can store data subject to cryptographic processing 225(e.g., secure aviation data). The data memory 220 can include bothencrypted and decrypted data. In some embodiment, the data memory 220does not store data (e.g., one or more cryptographic keys) that is usedin cryptographic processing of the data by one or more cryptographicunits associated with a host system.

The CIK device 250 can include circuitry configured to provide a CIK 255to external devices for user authentication. In one embodiment, the CIKdevice 250 can include a memory storing the CIK 255. In one embodiment,the CIK device 250 can include circuitry (e.g., a memory andtransmitter) configured to wireless transmit a CIK for detection at anexternal device.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 6 includes one or moreconnectors 270. The connector(s) 270 can be interfaced with an externaldevice (e.g., a terminal or host system) by engaging the connector(s)with a suitable slot, receptacle, or connection located on the externaldevice to provide a mechanical and electrical connection with theexternal device.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 6 includes a key memoryinterface 212. The key memory interface 212 can communicate one or morecryptographic keys 215 stored in the key memory 210 via the connector(s)270 according to a first protocol. The first protocol can be a serialprotocol suitable for the transfer of cryptographic keys, such as aserial protocol used by key fill devices. As an example, the firstprotocol can be a DS-101 or DS-102 protocol used for the transfer of keymaterial. Other suitable protocols can be used as the first protocolwithout deviating from the scope of the present disclosure, such as aUSB protocol, I2C protocol, SPI protocol, or other suitable protocol.

The removable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 6 further includes a datamemory interface 222 that is separate from the key memory interface 212.The data memory interface 222 can communicate data subject tocryptographic processing 225 stored in the data memory 220 viaconnector(s) 270 using a second protocol. In some embodiments, thesecond protocol can be different from the first protocol. The secondprotocol can be, for instance, a serial protocol suitable for thetransfer of data subject to cryptographic processing 225, such as a USBprotocol, I2C protocol, SPI protocol, or other suitable protocol. Theremovable data cartridge 130 of FIG. 6 includes a CIK interface 252. TheCIK interface 252 can communicate one or more CIKs 255 associated withthe CIK device 250 using connector(s) 270. The one or more CIKs 255 canbe used by the host system for user authentication.

One example host system according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure can be an avionic data transfer system having a plurality ofcryptographic units. According to example aspects of the presentdisclosure, a host device (e.g., a cryptographic unit or other device)of the avionic data transfer system can act as a key server distributingone or more cryptographic keys loaded to the host device using aremovable data cartridge to the one or more cryptographic units of theavionic data transfer system

FIG. 7 depicts an example host system 110 according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure. The host system 110 can be anavionic data transfer system associated with an aircraft. The hostsystem 110 can include a plurality of cryptographic units 115. In FIG.7, the host system 110 includes four cryptographic units 115.1, 115.2,115.3, and 115.4. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using thedisclosures provided herein, will understand that more or fewercryptographic units 115 can be included in the host system 110 withoutdeviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

The host system 110 includes a host device 112. The host device 112 canbe a cryptographic unit configured for cryptographically processing ofdata. In addition and/or in the alternative, the host device 112 can bea dedicated device for interfacing with a key fill device or otherexternal device for receiving one or more cryptographic keys. The hostdevice 112 can include a slot, socket, receptacle, or connection tointerface with an external device for loading one or more cryptographickeys to the host device 112.

In one embodiment, the host device 112 can be interfaced with aremovable data cartridge 130. The removable data cartridge 130 can beany removable data cartridge according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure. In one embodiment, the removable data cartridge 130includes both a key memory storing one or more cryptographic keys and adata memory storing data subject to cryptographic processing. In thisway, the removable data cartridge 130 can act as both a key fill deviceand a data transfer device. In some embodiments, the removable datacartridge 130 can include an embedded CIK device.

The host device 112 can be in communication with the cryptographic units115.1, 115.2, 115.3, and 115.4 over a data bus 118. For instance, thehost device 112 can be in communication with the cryptographic units115.1, 115.2, 115.3, and 115.4 via an aircraft data bus, such as anMIL-STD-1554, ARINC-429, or other suitable data bus. In otherembodiments, the host device 112 can be in communication with thecryptographic units 115.1, 115.2, 115.3, and 115.4 over an Ethernetconnection or other data bus.

The host device 112 can act as a key server for the avionic datatransfer system. More particularly, the host device 112 can receive oneor more cryptographic keys from the removable data cartridge 130according to example aspects of the present disclosure. The one or morecryptographic keys can include encrypted keys (“black keys”) ordecrypted keys (“red keys”). The host device 112 can also receive datasubject to cryptographic processing (e.g., secure aviation data) fromthe removable data cartridge 130. The host device 112 can use the redkeys and/or can decrypt the black keys for cryptographic processing ofthe data received from the removable data cartridge 130. In addition,the host device 130 can distribute one or more of the red keys and/orblack keys to various of the cryptographic units 115.1, 115.2, 115.3,and 115.4 for cryptographic processing of data at the cryptographicunits 115.1, 115.2, 115.3, and 115.4.

In one embodiment, the host device 112 can include a user interface(e.g., a graphical user interface presented on a display associated withthe host device) that allows a user to interact with the host device 112to distribute the one or more cryptographic keys among the variouscryptographic units 115.1, 115.2, 115.3, and 115.4. For example, a usercan interact with the user interface to specify that a particularlycryptographic key is to be distributed to cryptographic unit 115.2. Thehost device 112 can then distribute the cryptographic key to thecryptographic unit 115.2 for cryptographic processing.

In one embodiment, the host device 112 can automatically distribute theone or more cryptographic keys to the cryptographic units 115.1, 115.2,115.3, and 115.4 based on header data associated with the one or morecryptographic keys received from the removable data cartridge 130. Theheader data for a cryptographic key can specify a particular destinationcryptographic unit for the cryptographic key. For instance, the hostdevice 112 can receive a cryptographic key having header data specifyingthat the cryptographic key is for use with cryptographic unit 115.1. Thehost device 112 can automatically distribute the cryptographic key tocryptographic unit 115.1 for cryptographic processing of data. Theheader data can be associated with the cryptographic key, for instance,at a terminal used for aviation planning.

According to example embodiments of the present disclosure, acryptographic key configuration (CKC) can be generated at a terminal forconfiguration of various aspects of a cryptographic system. The CKC canbe stored on a removable data cartridge at the terminal and transportedto a host system, such as an avionic data transfer system associatedwith an aircraft. The CKC can be loaded into the avionic data transfersystem and used to configure various aspects of the avionic datatransfer system, such as mapping of authorized users and CIKs, mappingof cryptographic keys to various cryptographic units, etc.

FIG. 8 depicts a representation of an example cryptographic keyconfiguration (CKC) 300 according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure. The CKC can include one or more of the authorized useraccount data 302, data 304 mapping authorized user accounts to CIKs,cryptographic key data 306, data 308 mapping cryptographic keys to oneor more channels, slots, and/or cryptographic units, and/or a loadscript 310 for loading cryptographic keys and other information to anavionic data transfer system. In some embodiments, the CKC 300 can be aplatform CKC (PCKC) that further includes data 312 indicative ofcryptographic unit identifiers as well as a mapping of information tocryptographic units of an avionic data transfer system.

The authorized user account data 302 can include data identifyingauthorized users of the avionic data transfer system, such asindividuals authorized to load and process secure aviation data into theavionic data transfer system. The data 304 can include one or more CIKsand data mapping CIKs to authorized users. The data 304 can be used bythe avionic data transfer system in requiring the presence of a CIK froma CIK device (e.g., a removable data cartridge with an embedded CIKdevice) to authenticate an authorized user of the avionic data transfersystem.

The one or more cryptographic keys 306 can be used by the host systemfor cryptographic processing of data (e.g., encrypting and/or decryptingdata using various encryption algorithms). For instance, in one exampleembodiment, the one or more cryptographic keys 306 can be used tocryptographically process secure aviation data. The cryptographic keys306 and data subject to cryptographic processing can be stored on thesame removable storage device, such as a removable data cartridge havinga dedicated key memory and a dedicated data memory according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure.

The data 308 can be used to map cryptographic keys to various channels,slots, or cryptographic units in the host system. For instance, the data308 can include header data associated with each of the one or morecryptographic keys. The header data for each cryptographic key can beindicative of the channel, slot, and/or cryptographic unit thecryptographic key is to be used for the cryptographic processing ofdata.

The load script 310 can be used to load the information from the CKC tothe avionic data transfer system. In one embodiment, the load script canimplement a key loader for loading keys to a data transfer system from aremovable data cartridge according to example aspects of the presentdisclosure. For instance, the load script can cause one or morecryptographic keys to be loaded to a host device of the avionic datatransfer system when the removable data cartridge is interfaced with thehost device.

In some embodiments, the CKC can be a PCKC and can include additionaldata 312 indicative of cryptographic unit identifiers as well as amapping of information to cryptographic units of an avionic datatransfer system. The PCKC can be used to configure an avionic datatransfer system having a plurality of cryptographic units. Cryptographickeys can be distributed to the plurality of cryptographic units, usingfor instance, a host device acting as a key server and in communicationwith the plurality of cryptographic units over, for instance, a databus.

According to example embodiments of the present disclosure, the CKC canbe generated at a terminal remote from the avionic data transfer system.For instance, FIG. 9 depicts a terminal 120 that can be used to generatea CKC according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Theterminal 120 can be used to generate the CKC and transfer the CKC to aremovable data cartridge 130. The removable data cartridge 130 can thenbe interfaced with the avionic data transfer system to configure thecryptographic elements of the avionic data transfer system.

As shown the terminal 120 can access various databases to generate theCKC according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Forinstance, the terminal 120 can access one or more of a user accountdatabase 312, a CIK identifier database 314, a cryptographic keydatabase 316, a CKC database 318, and cryptographic unit identifierdatabase 320. The user account database 312 can store data associatedwith authorized users of one or more cryptographic systems. The CIKidentifier database 314 can store data associated with CIKs used foruser authentication. Cryptographic key database 316 can storecryptographic keys for cryptographic processing of data by one or morecryptographic systems. CKC database 318 can store CKCs generated by theterminal 120, and cryptographic unit identifier database 320 can storedata associated with various cryptographic units in one or morecryptographic systems.

The terminal 120 can access data stored in one or more of the databases312, 314, 316, 318, and 320 and use the data to generate a CKC. Theterminal 120 can include one or more processors and one or more memorydevices storing computer-readable instructions that when executed by theone or more processors cause the one or more processors to implement auser interface 125. The user interface 125 allows an administrator tointeract with the terminal to perform one or more CKC actions togenerate a CKC. The CKC actions can include one or more of the followingactions: (1) Retrieve user account data from a repository of useraccount data. (2) Create/modify/delete user account data in a repositoryof user account data. (3) Authorize user accounts for cryptographicprocessing. (4) Retrieve CIK identifier from a repository of CIKidentifiers. (5) Create/modify/delete CIK identifiers in a repository ofCIK identifiers. (6) Create/modify/delete links between CIK identifiersand User Account Data. (7) Retrieve cryptographic keys from a repositoryof cryptographic keys. (8) Create/modify/delete links betweencryptographic unit channel slots and cryptographic keys. (10)Create/modify/delete CKCs in a repository of CKCs. (11)Create/modify/delete CKC files on a medium for transport to a hostsystem, such as a removable data cartridge.

In embodiments where PCKCs are created, the user interface can allow theadministrator to additionally perform one or more of the following CKCactions: (1) Create/modify/delete links between cryptographic equipmentidentifiers and user account data and CIKs and keys, and platforms. (2)Create/modify/delete scripts to automate the loading of PCKCs intocryptographic equipment on a platform. (3) Create/modify/delete PCKCs ina repository of PCKCs. (4) Create/modify/delete PCKC files on a mediumfor transport to a platform, such as a removable data cartridge.

Once the CKC has been generated at the terminal, the CKC can be storedon the removable data cartridge 130. The removable data cartridge 130can then be interfaced with an avionic data transfer system to configurethe avionic data transfer system for cryptographic processing of dataaccording to example embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 depicts a flow diagram of an example method (400) according toexample embodiments of the present disclosure. The method can beimplemented using a cryptographic system, such as any of thecryptographic systems discussed herein. In addition, FIG. 10 depictssteps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration anddiscussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosuresprovided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methodsdescribed herein can be modified, expanded, omitted, adapted, orrearranged without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

According to example aspects of the present disclosure, the method (400)can be performed by a host device. The host device can include one ormore processors and one or more memory devices. The host device can be acryptographic unit configured for cryptographically processing data.Alternatively, the host device can also be a dedicated device forinterfacing with a removable data cartridge. The host device can be incommunication with a plurality of cryptographic units via a data bus.The data bus can be, for instance, an aircraft data bus, such as aMIL-STD-1554, ARINC-429, or other suitable data bus.

At (402), a removable data cartridge is engaged with the host device viaat least one connector associated with the removable data cartridge. Forexample, the removable data cartridge can be inserted into a suitablereceptacle, slot, or connection at the host device. The removable datastorage device can include a key fill device. In one embodiment, theremovable data storage device can include a dedicated key memory storingthe one or more cryptographic keys and a dedicated data memory storingthe data subject to cryptographic processing (e.g., secure aviationdata). The removable data cartridge can further include a CIK deviceconfigured to communicate a CIK for user authentication.

At (404), the method includes receiving one or more cryptographic keysat the host device. For instance, the one or more cryptographic keys canbe received at the host device from a removable data cartridge. The oneor more cryptographic keys can include encrypted keys and/or decryptedkeys. At (406), the method can further include receiving data subject tocryptographic processing from the removable data cartridge. In oneembodiment, the one or more cryptographic keys can be received via a keyinterface from a dedicated key memory in the removable data cartridge.The data subject to cryptographic processing can be received via a datamemory interface from a dedicated data memory in the removable datacartridge.

At (406), the method includes identifying at least one cryptographicunit of the plurality of cryptographic units in communication with thehost device for distribution of the cryptographic keys. In oneembodiment, the at least one cryptographic unit is identified based atleast in part on a user interaction with the host device (e.g., via auser interface) specifying the at least one cryptographic unit fordistribution of the cryptographic keys. In one embodiment, the at leastone cryptographic unit can be identified based on header data associatedwith the cryptographic keys The header data for a cryptographic key canspecify a particular destination cryptographic unit for thecryptographic key.

At (408), the method can include transferring the cryptographic keys tothe identified cryptographic unit. In this way, the host device can actas a key server for the cryptographic keys. At (410), the method caninclude processing data at the at least one cryptographic unit based atleast in part on the cryptographic keys. For instance, the method caninclude encrypting or decrypting the data subject to cryptographicprocessing at the at least one cryptographic unit based at least in parton the one or more cryptographic keys.

Although specific features of various embodiments may be shown in somedrawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordancewith the principles of the present disclosure, any feature of a drawingmay be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of anyother drawing.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal languages of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of providing cryptographic keys in anavionic data transfer system associated with an aircraft, the methodcomprising: engaging a removable data storage device with a host devicevia at least one connector; receiving, at the host device, one or morecryptographic keys for cryptographic processing of data from theremovable data storage device interfaced with the host device;identifying, by the host device, at least one cryptographic unit of aplurality of cryptographic units in communication with the host deviceover a data bus for distribution of the one or more cryptographic keys;transferring, by the host device, the one or more cryptographic keys tothe at least one cryptographic unit via the data bus wherein theremovable data storage device comprises a key fill device, whereinengaging the removable data storage device with a host device comprisesinserting the removable data storage device into a slot in the hostdevice, wherein the removable data storage device comprises a dedicatedkey memory storing the one or more cryptographic keys and a dedicateddata memory storing data subject to cryptographic processing, andwherein transferring, by the host device, the one or more cryptographickeys to the at least one cryptographic unit comprises automaticallydistributing the one or more cryptographic keys to the at least onecryptographic unit by the host device when the removable data storagedevice is engaged with the host device.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the method comprises receiving, at the host device, data subjectto cryptographic processing from the removable data storage device, andwherein the method comprises receiving, at the host device, bothencrypted data and unencrypted data.
 3. The method of claim 1, whereinthe method comprises processing data at the at least one cryptographicunit based at least in part on the one or more cryptographic keystransferred to the at least one cryptographic unit from the host deviceover the data bus.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or morecryptographic keys comprise encrypted keys and decrypted keys.
 5. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the host device comprises a cryptographicunit.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the host device comprises adedicated device for interfacing with the removable data storage device,and wherein the data bus comprises an ARINC-429 data bus.
 7. A method ofproviding cryptographic keys in an avionic data transfer systemassociated with an aircraft, the method comprising: engaging a removabledata storage device with a host device via at least one connector;receiving, at the host device, one or more cryptographic keys forcryptographic processing of data from the removable data storage deviceinterfaced with the host device; identifying, by the host device, atleast one cryptographic unit of a plurality of cryptographic units incommunication with the host device over a data bus for distribution ofthe one or more cryptographic keys; transferring, by the host device,the one or more cryptographic keys to the at least one cryptographicunit via the data bus, wherein the removable data storage devicecomprises an embedded CIK device, wherein the plurality of cryptographicunits are in communication with each other via one or more Ethernetconnections, and wherein the at least one cryptographic unit isidentified based at least in part on a user interaction with the hostdevice specifying the at least one cryptographic unit.
 8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein the one or more cryptographic keys comprise headerdata.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein the at least one cryptographicunit is identified based at least in part on the header data.
 10. Themethod of claim 8, wherein the data bus comprises a MIL-STD-1554 databus.
 11. An avionic data transfer system, comprising: a host device; aplurality of cryptographic units coupled to the host device via a databus; wherein the host device comprises one or more processors and one ormore memory devices, the memory devices storing computer-readableinstructions that when executed by the one or more processors cause theone or more processors to perform operations, the operations comprising:receiving one or more cryptographic keys for cryptographic processing ofdata from a removable data storage device interfaced with the hostdevice; identifying at least one cryptographic unit of the plurality ofcryptographic units for distribution of the one or more cryptographickeys; and transferring the one or more cryptographic keys to the atleast one cryptographic unit via the data bus, wherein the removabledata storage device comprises an embedded CIK device, wherein theplurality of cryptographic units are in communication with each othervia one or more Ethernet connections, and wherein the at least onecryptographic unit is identified based at least in part on a userinteraction with the host device specifying the at least onecryptographic unit.
 12. The avionic data transfer system of claim 11,wherein the one or more cryptographic keys comprise header data.
 13. Theavionic data transfer system of claim 12, wherein the at least onecryptographic unit is identified based at least in part on the headerdata.
 14. The avionic data transfer system of claim 11, wherein the datasubject to cryptographic processing comprises aviation data.